Individualized Studies

Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies at Winthrop University is designed for students whose academic interests reach across or beyond the major programs currently offered by the university. Students will have the opportunity to design a plan of study tailored to their own needs and interests. This innovative, integrative and flexible degree program allows students to take on the exciting challenge of creating their own curriculum and a unique plan for exploring some area of study not defined by a single discipline.  Furthermore, concepts developed in research projects can be applied in internships, service learning, and study abroad.

The BA in Individualized Studies prepares students to meet the needs and challenges of the contemporary world by developing skills that are highly valued by employers, such as written and oral communication, analytical and critical thinking, knowledge synthesis, and collaborative work.

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Curriculum & Learning Opportunities

BA in Individualized Studies will broaden your intellectual horizons while giving you a chance to gain experience in your future work area through internships and other work experience. We make it possible for you to combine courses from the fields of business, visual arts, social sciences, foreign languages, or any other academic curriculum offered at Winthrop.

To be admitted as a major, you must submit a program application, including Statement of Purpose and Plan of Study. The Statement of Purpose describes your academic and career goals and explains why a traditional major or double major does not fit these goals. The Statement of Purpose and Plan of Study must be approved by the Individualized Studies Coordinating Committee. Your first 30 credit hours at school must be completed with a GPA of 2.75 (or 2.5 at the discretion of the Program Director).

• You will work closely with your Faculty Advisory Committee to design your own undergraduate Plan of Study. The Advisors will help you construct an academic plan that has depth and breadth and invites you to think critically and make connections between different academic areas.
• You will have the opportunity to select courses from among all Winthrop schools, colleges and programs.
• You will explore multiple opportunities for learning outside the traditional classroom, such as internships, independent studies, and study abroad. These will allow you to develop practical knowledge in your areas of interest and to link these interests to the wider world.

Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies - Curriculum

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Examples of Individualized Studies majors leading to successful professions and graduate programs:

• "Women's Health and Empowerment" (Winthrop, 2015) leading to full employment with leading women's advocacy institute in NY
• "Complexity and Sustainability" (NYU, 2013) leading to a position as Manager of the Center for Social Entrepreneurship
• "Sports and Recreation Management" (University of Maryland, 2012) leading to an M.S. in Student Affairs in Higher Education
• "Global Health" (University of Maryland, 2011) leading to Brown University Medical School
• "International Relations" (University of Maryland, 2009) leading to a position as a Disaster Risk Management Specialist

 

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